Name: Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)

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This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings together tender chicken breast, vibrant broccoli florets, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a generous layer of melted cheese. Bursting with color, flavor, and texture, it’s the ideal quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or nourishment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is both delicious and practical. It offers a balanced combination of lean protein, vegetables, and gooey cheese in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy evenings, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and highly adaptable to what you have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Broccoli florets
Cherry tomatoes
Shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
Olive oil
Garlic
Onion
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning

Directions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic; cook until fragrant.
Add broccoli florets and a splash of water; cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
Return the chicken to the skillet, stir everything together, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Cover the skillet and cook for a few minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for turkey or shrimp.
Add cooked pasta or rice for a more filling meal.
Use other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Replace mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth until heated through. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

Mozzarella, cheddar, or any good melting cheese works. A blend of Italian cheeses offers great flavor.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you avoid adding pasta or rice and choose a low-carb cheese.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs add more flavor and remain tender when cooked.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Cook it just until done. Overcooking can make the chicken tough.

Can I bake this instead of using the stove?

Yes. Sauté the ingredients, then transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme complement the flavors nicely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the dish up to the cheese step, then refrigerate and melt the cheese just before serving.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I add a sauce to this recipe?

A light cream or tomato sauce can be added if desired, though it’s flavorful enough without one.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dinner option perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep, wholesome ingredients, and plenty of cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

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A quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheese in a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the broccoli florets and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Serve warm.